3 Days Safari Serengeti NP and Ngorongoro Crater

Exploring Tanzania’s Wildlife on a 3-Day Safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro

Travelers dreaming of spotting the Big Five and witnessing Africa’s iconic landscapes will find this 3-day safari a compelling choice. Offered by Simba Adventures, this tour promises a quick but comprehensive immersion into some of Tanzania’s most renowned national parks—Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the journey is led by knowledgeable guides who keep the game drives lively and informative. Secondly, the combination of vast savannahs, diverse ecosystems, and dramatic crater landscapes offers extraordinary photo opportunities. Finally, the inclusion of all meals, camping facilities, and airport transfers makes it a convenient, all-in-one package.

Of course, a 3-day schedule means tight timing, so travelers should be prepared for early mornings and long hours of game viewing. Also, since the tour is based on camping, those preferring luxury lodges might find this a more rustic adventure. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or anyone looking to tick off Tanzanian safari highlights in a short span.

Key Points

Authentic African experience with guided game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
All-inclusive pricing covers meals, camping, park fees, and transfers.
Expert guides like Issack, who earn praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
Stunning scenery and wildlife—with opportunities to see the Big Five.
Well-organized itinerary balancing game viewing, travel, and comfort.
Cost-effective for what it offers, especially for those with limited time.

Overview of the 3-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari

This tour by Simba Adventures provides a compact but immersive safari experience, carefully designed to maximize wildlife sightings and scenic beauty within just three days. For many travelers, especially those with limited time or budget, this is a practical way to encounter Tanzania’s wildlife treasures.

The booking process appears straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 43 days in advance, suggesting a good reputation and demand. The $962 fee per person includes essential components such as park fees, meals, camping gear, transportation, and guides—making it a transparent and value-driven option.

The Departure Point and Logistics

Starting at the Hotel Equator Clock Tower in Arusha, the tour begins early, typically with a pickup in the morning. This central location is accessible and close to major accommodation options, streamlining your start into Tanzania’s wilderness. The tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple for travelers staying in Arusha.

Small Group Experience and Personal Touch

With a maximum of 7 travelers, the group size keeps things intimate, allowing for personalized attention from guides like Issack, who was praised for his expert knowledge. Reviews mention that the team is friendly, helpful, and eager to share their expertise, which can significantly enhance your understanding of the flora and fauna.

Day 1: Journey into Serengeti National Park

After an early breakfast, you’re collected from your hotel, setting out towards the Serengeti—Tanzania’s largest national park. This initial drive is an adventure in itself, with the landscape gradually transforming from lush farmland to the iconic African plains.

Once inside Serengeti, you’ll enjoy a lunch break before heading into an afternoon game drive. Your driver guide—likely known to spot where the big herds are congregating—will take you through diverse habitats like short grass plains, thick bush, and lakes. Expect to see a variety of animals, from elephants and giraffes to zebras and maybe even a lion or leopard.

Reviewers highlight the quality of guides like Issack, who was described as very knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife. The scenery and animal encounters here are often described as breathtaking, with plenty of photo moments.

Accommodation here is at Seronera Nyani Campsite, which offers basic camping facilities, bringing a true bush experience. While not a luxury lodge, the campsite provides a chance to truly learn about the surroundings, with the sounds of wildlife as your night soundtrack.

Day 2: From Serengeti to Ngorongoro

An early start is key for this day—before breakfast, you’ll go on a sunrise game drive. The early morning is often the best time to see predators like lions or cheetahs when they are most active.

After returning for brunch, you’ll hit the road again, heading towards Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive itself offers scenic vistas, and your guide will likely share insights about the landscape, local Maasai communities, and conservation efforts.

Arriving at Ngorongoro later in the day, you’ll settle into Simba Campsite. This area offers a different experience—crater views, wildlife sightings, and an entirely different ecosystem than Serengeti.

Reviews mention the delicious food and helpful guides, making the transition smooth and enjoyable. The journey from Serengeti to Ngorongoro is not just travel; it’s part of the adventure.

Day 3: Descending into Ngorongoro Crater

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the Ngorongoro Crater. After an early breakfast, you’ll descend into this massive volcanic caldera—often called the “Garden of Eden”—for about six hours of game viewing.

Inside the crater, you can expect to see over 25,000 mammals, including lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards. The unique geography concentrates wildlife, which increases your chances of seeing multiple species in a single game drive.

Reviewers like the one who said, “Incredible experience! Saw all animals with super guide Issack,” realize how special this area is for wildlife viewing. The crater’s stunning scenery, combined with close animal encounters, makes for a memorable day.

Afterward, you’ll make the scenic drive back to Arusha, completing your safari experience.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s all-inclusive fee covers park entry fees, all meals and mineral water, camping gear, driver guide and cook, and transportation. This simplifies your budget and planning, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Not included are tips, personal items, and pre/post accommodation in Arusha, which are typical for such tours. Travelers should budget extra for tips, especially for guides and staff, and consider arranging their own hotel stay if needed.

The mobility of the tour—with pickup and drop-off at your hotel—adds to its convenience. The mobile ticket aspect means you can easily access and organize your trip details online, useful for last-minute planners.

Authentic Highlights and Unique Extras

What truly adds to this safari’s appeal is the quality of the guides. Reviewers repeatedly mention Issack, noting his knowledgeability and friendly attitude. His ability to locate animals and share insightful commentary elevates the experience beyond just wildlife viewing.

Food also gets high marks, with reviewers raving about the delicious, plentiful meals prepared by the team. Camping in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro is rough and ready but authentic, offering a genuine bush survival feeling while still providing good sustenance.

The scenery—from Serengeti’s endless plains to Ngorongoro’s volcanic caldera—is awe-inspiring. Many describe the views as “amazing” and the wildlife encounters “like being in a fairy tale,” which underscores how striking these landscapes are.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits travelers seeking a cost-effective, quick immersion into Tanzania’s wildlife. If you love guided wildlife spotting, authentic camping, and scenic drives, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and value a small group setting for more personalized attention.

While it’s a good choice for adventurous travelers comfortable with camping and early mornings, it might not appeal to those seeking luxury lodges or fully private tours. The focus on outdoor camping and group-based adventures makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy a rustic, authentic experience.

The Sum Up

This 3-day safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro offers an excellent balance of adventure, scenery, and wildlife. With professional guides like Issack, you’ll enjoy the thrill of spotting animals up close and learning about their environment from passionate experts. The inclusive price makes it accessible for many, covering all essentials and eliminating surprises.

The combination of diverse landscapes—from the sweeping plains of Serengeti to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater—ensures every day is packed with unforgettable sights and moments. The only consideration might be the camping setup, which isn’t for everyone, but for those craving authenticity, it’s a big plus.

This tour is a fantastic option for wildlife lovers, first-timers, or anyone eager to explore Tanzania’s most celebrated parks without breaking the bank. It’s a genuine adventure—rough around the edges, but incredibly rewarding.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
All fees and taxes, airport transfers, all meals and mineral water, camping facilities, driver guide and cook, and safari transportation are included, making it a comprehensive package.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Hotel Equator Clock Tower in Arusha and concludes back at the same spot after the safari.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at campsites such as Seronera Nyani Campsite and Simba Campsite, offering basic camping facilities close to wildlife.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with camping and early mornings. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, particularly for wildlife newbies.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals and mineral water are included, prepared by the on-site cook, and generally praised for their quality.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Refunds are processed promptly if canceled in time.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring personal items, a camera, binoculars, and suitable outdoor clothing for early mornings and potential weather changes.

In all, this safari tour offers an exciting, authentic taste of Tanzania’s wilderness. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, the combination of expert guides, stunning landscapes, and great value makes it a trip worth considering.